This book assesses the practical repercussions of self-representation on the conduct of international criminal proceedings. It discusses above all the actual implications of defendants acting as their own counsel for international criminal trials. The book looks at the current situation of recognition, exercise, and restriction of self-representation before international criminal tribunals, outlining the significant developments of this practical framework over the years. This book argues that in order to safeguard the overall guarantee of fair and expeditious proceedings, the active participation of defendants has to see a different implementation in future international criminal proceedings.